Introduction: For a very long time I have attended a weekly Bible
study group. Those groups change over the years. Sometimes I am in
charge, and sometimes I am not. (I prefer it when I'm not in charge.)
Recently, I told the friend hosting our current Bible study that we
might have three new people show up that night. Turned out, none of
them showed up. Why? Unlike the current members of the group,
attending has not become a habit. Have you noticed that you can make
new habits that improve your life? Recently, I've created the habit
of going to the gym. What habits would you like to create? What
habits does the Bible tell us to adopt? Let's dive into our study of
the Bible and find out!

Love Habit

Read Ephesians 5:1-2. If you were asked if you loved God
and loved your co-workers, what would you say? (For many
years I was concerned that I did not love God, and I
certainly knew I did not love most of the people I knew -
unless they were family.)

How you define love is important here. How would you
describe love? (I think of it as an emotional, often
romantic feeling. Although today I have an emotional
love of God, I don't think emotion begins to describe
what the Bible has in mind when it tells us to "walk
in the way of love.")

Re-read Ephesians 5:2. How is loved described? (As self-sacrifice.)

When you are talking to someone, tell me which is of
more interest to you:

Learning more about the other person; or,

Telling something about yourself that relates
to the subject and puts you in a good light?
(The former Dean of my law school, Jeffrey
Brauch, has a wonderful habit. Whenever I
listen to him speak with a student, he always
intently listens and asks questions. He does
the same when talking with me. That taught me a
valuable habit of love - preferring to focus in
conversations on others rather than myself.)

Read Ephesians 5:3-4. Does this mean that flirting and
appearing to have money are wrong? What is wrong with an
occasional "mature" joke?

What is the suggested alternative to this kind of
talk? (Thankfulness! Giving thanks to God.)

Read Ephesians 5:5. Why is this arguably innocent talk a
problem? (The problem is that it reflects a heart of
immorality, impurity and love of money. What we say
generally reflects what we think. Our speech is a window
into our heart.)

What does the Bible say is the root problem? (That
"person is an idolater.")

How is that true? I don't know a single person
who makes an idol and then bows down and
worships it. (Be honest. Isn't all of this kind
of talk selfish is some way? The coarse joke is
generally at the expense of someone else - and
makes you look smart, right? Flirting, would
you admit, strengthens your relationship (or
your ego) at the expense of the person's
spouse? Talk about your wealth tells others you
are better than they are. What does all of this
get you? It pumps up your image of yourself!
You worship yourself.)

Can you see the thread of logic that runs
through all of this? (The theme is to exchange
the habit of love for yourself for concern for
others. Thankfulness focuses your mind on the
kindness of others.)

What can you do to break that habit and replace
it with unselfish talk? (We need to be alert to
the problem, and ask the Holy Spirit to change
our hearts.)

Read 1 Corinthians 10:1-4. How would you rate the
background of these people? (They had many spiritual
advantages.)

Are they like us?

Read 1 Corinthians 10:5. What is the problem? (Despite
these spiritual advantages, they displeased God and they
died.)

Is there a connection between our habits and setting
our hearts? (Yes. We just discussed becoming aware of
the issue of our habits, and then asking the Holy
Spirit to change our heart.)

Read 1 Corinthians 10:7-11. What does grumbling have in
common with sexual immorality and idol worship? (It is the
same thing we have been discussing. Grumbling arises from
a focus on yourself.)

Trust Habit

Read Matthew 6:28. What would you answer? (Worry is often
about how you appear to others. No one wants to be
embarrassed.)

Read Matthew 6:29-30. What habit is Jesus encouraging us
to adopt? (The habit of trusting God and not worrying.)

Read Matthew 6:31-33. What is the first priority for
pagans? (Running after clothes, food, drink and things.)

What should be our first priority? (Seeking God's
kingdom and His righteousness. God gives us all of
these "things" the pagans seek as a bonus!)

Let's look at this in terms of habits. What is the
first thing you think about in the morning? Is it
what you need to do for work? What you need to do to
amuse yourself? Money?

How would your life be different if your first
thoughts in the morning were about how you
could improve your walk with God? What you
could do to advance the Kingdom of God?

Read James 4:13-14. How would you compare this to the
pagans we just read about who worry all the time about
getting things? (This is somewhat different. These are
people who plan the future.)

Is there anything wrong with planning? (Planning
without God being in the picture is the problem. Our
personal planning has the serious problem that we,
unlike God, cannot predict the future.)

Read James 4:15. What should be at the center of all of
our plans? (God's will! We should not only develop the
habit of not worrying, we should develop the habit of
putting God at the center of our plans.)

Mind Habits

Read Philippians 4:6. Does this seem to be a summary of
our discussion so far?

Read Philippians 4:7. What is the result of putting in
place these habits? (Peace from God. Peace that guards our
hearts and minds. Peace that others do not understand.)

Read Philippians 4:8. Consider testing your mental habits
against what we have been learning. When you think about
yesterday, did your mind take in things that were right,
pure, lovely and admirable? (Many of us need better mental
habits. I recall some friends talking about movies they
had seen or wanted to see. My immediate thought was that
they were boring - and then I felt guilty because these
were noble, pure and lovely movies.)

What do you think it means to focus your mind on what
is "true?" How about "admirable?" "Praiseworthy?"
(How much of your thinking is on routine matters?
How much of your thinking is spent on things that
don't matter - or, if they matter, could get you into
trouble? This suggests that we develop the habit of
thinking "great" thoughts. Thoughts about how you
might apply God's word to your job, your family
relationships, politics, economics, your church, and
your life.)

Friend, do your habits need renovation? If so, invite the
Holy Spirit, right now, to guide your mind and your words
into a better set of habits!

Next week: The Results of Stewardship.

Copr. 2018, Bruce N. Cameron, J.D. All scripture references are to
the New International Version (NIV), copr. 1973, 1978, 1984
International Bible Society, unless otherwise noted. Quotations
from the NIV are used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers.
Suggested answers are found within parentheses. Pray for the
guidance of the Holy Spirit as you study.

Introduction: Forbes says that foolishly spending money is the number
one cause for divorce. While others dispute the extent of the
relationship between money and divorce, a common view is that
financial problems tend to seep into other areas of family life and
create friction. My guess is that couples are not fighting over how
to spend extra money, they are in conflict over the debt that arises
from foolish spending. Did you know that the Bible gives us counsel
on debt? It does! Let's dig into our study of the Bible and see what
we can learn about God's view of debt!

Old Testament Rules on Debt

Read Deuteronomy 15:6. We have repeatedly discussed God's
promises to bless us financially if we are generous with
Him in the use of our money and talents. What does this
text suggest about God's blessings to us and debt? (This
tells us that God's blessings will allow us to be lenders,
and keep us from being borrowers.)

To what does this text compare borrowing money? (You
are ruled by those to whom you owe money.)

Does this text say borrowing money is wrong? (No.
But, it does not put borrowing in a favorable light.
It says that when it comes to lending and borrowing,
God wants us to be lenders!)

Read Deuteronomy 15:1-3. What happened every seven years
in the lending and borrowing system among the Israelites?
(Debts were cancelled!)

Think about how God's system for His people compares
to the modern banking system. Do banks want to give
you credit cards so that you will get into debt?
(Absolutely.)

How would the banks' behavior change if debts
were cancelled every seven years? (Today, banks
want to lure us into debt because they charge
enormous interest rates. But, this shows that
under God's system, lenders faced very
practical limits on lending.)

What about lending to foreigners? (That was
different.)

Read Deuteronomy 15:7-9. Well, well! This reveals the
obvious limitation in a system cancelling debts every
seven years. What does God call it if you don't want to
lend money when the seventh year is approaching? (Sin!)

Read Deuteronomy 15:10-11. When the text refers to "in the
land" and "your brothers," what does this say about God's
policy? (The NIV translates this "toward your brothers and
toward the poor and needy." However, that is not the way
the rest of the translations that I consulted treat this.
The rest refer to the poor and needy among your brothers.
This seems to focus the policy on fellow believers.)

Read Proverbs 3:28. What principle does this text promote?
(Prompt payment of debts.)

Read Deuteronomy 28:12-14. As you think about these verses
and the lessons we learned from Deuteronomy 15, what
concepts is God combining? (Lessons on the connection
between obedience and blessings, lending rules and our
care for the poor.)

Why are these concepts combined? (God's goal is to
bless us so that we do not need to borrow. But,
lending to the poor (and releasing them from debt),
is part of being generous towards God.)

If being obedient to God will help us to avoid being
in debt. What are those rules? Let's explore those
next!

Backing Loans

Read Proverbs 17:18 and Proverbs 22:26. What does it mean
to "pledge?" (This is guaranteeing the payment of a loan.
The Bible warns us about promising to pay the loan of
another person in the event they fail to pay.)

Why is this different than actually lending the money
to the other person?

Read Proverbs 22:27. What does this suggest is the true
problem with being a guarantor of debt? (The real problem
is not being able to pay back the debt. If you truly had
the money, you could make the loan yourself. But, the
problem arises when you want to be helpful (or appear
rich) and you don't have the money.)

Borrowing Things

Read 2 Kings 6:4-7. What would be the obligation of the
man who accidentally lost the ax head had Elisha not been
around to perform a miracle? (Read Exodus 22:14-15. You
are to make restitution. This is not true if you paid to
rent the ax head or if the owner of the ax head was
working with you.)

My wife's parents were poor farmers. She tells the story
of her father borrowing an electric drill from a neighbor.
The drill burned out when her father was using it, and the
result was that they paid for a new drill for their
neighbor and had nothing to show for it. What would have
been the better approach? (Just buy a new drill for
yourself.)

Common Sense

Read Luke 14:28-30 and Proverbs 21:5. What does this
suggest about the use of our money? (Use common sense!
Plan carefully. Have a budget. Make sure you have enough
money for whatever project you have in mind.)

Read Proverbs 22:1. Why do people want to live above their
means? Why borrow money to look like you have more
wealth? (You think that brings more esteem. Others think
better of you.)

What does this text say is better than looking
wealthy? (Having a good name. The good news is that a
good name costs you nothing other than keeping your
word and obeying God.)

If we put the Luke 14 instruction to use common sense
together with Proverbs 22, does borrowing money to
look wealthier end up with the result you want? (No.
You end up poorer. Not only do you have to repay the
debt, but lenders take part of your money in
interest.)

Read 1 Timothy 6:6-8. What antidote do we find here to our
the desire to borrow money to get new things? (Be
content.)

Read Proverbs 13:11. If you have an ambition for better
things, how does this text say we should fulfill that
ambition? (By saving our money.)

Read 1 Timothy 6:9-10. Is borrowing money that you do not
need a "foolish and harmful desire?" (If you are borrowing
to "look rich," this ambition is a "trap.")

Re-read Luke 14:28 and apply it to the cars we drive. I
recall that when I was young, I had two cars and I would
replace one of them with a new car about every two years.
I borrowed the money, of course, to buy my cars. One day,
I looked at my small home with my two "new" cars parked
outside (my house did not have a garage). What would you
change about this picture? (I realized that I had my money
in the wrong place. Cars depreciate, houses often
appreciate. I bought a much bigger home (with a garage)
and drove used cars for the next twenty years.)

Will buying less expensive used cars make you feel
like you are on a diet? You know it is good for you,
but hate the process? (Consider how God blessed my
"used car" program. At one point I had two beautiful
cars in my garage: a red Corvette and a Mercedes two-seat convertible. Outside my garage was a dark blue
Mercedes S class that I drove to work every day and a
Dodge Grand Caravan that I used to haul things. The
total that I paid for all of these vehicles was
$16,000! I know this seems impossible, but it is
true.)

We have been discussing borrowing money for things that we
do not need. What if we need to borrow money to live? Read
Matthew 6:28-33. What alternative does God offer to
borrowing money to live?

What would it look like to "seek first His kingdom
and His righteousness?" (Being generous with God
brings blessings, as we have discussed in our
previous lessons in this series. Second, creating the
right priorities will help us to have good budgeting
goals.)

How would you like to live a life without worry about
finances?

Friend, your life will be better without debt. Why not
determine, right now, that by the power of the Holy
Spirit, you will determine to become a lender and not a
borrower?

Next week: The Habits of a Steward.

Copr. 2018, Bruce N. Cameron, J.D. All scripture references are to
the New International Version (NIV), copr. 1973, 1978, 1984
International Bible Society, unless otherwise noted. Quotations
from the NIV are used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers.
Suggested answers are found within parentheses. Pray for the
guidance of the Holy Spirit as you study.

Introduction: This week I listened to a TED talk about capitalism.
The speaker said capitalism was not a political theory or merely a
philosophy of economics, it was an "operating system." Just like your
cell phone (or computer) has an operating system, the speaker argued
that capitalism was the way that successful economic life operated.
His example was that the two biggest economic systems in the world,
the United States and China, have completely different political
systems, but have capitalist economic systems. Our lesson this week
considers whether stewardship is the "operating system" of the
Christian life. Whatever may be your specific doctrinal views,
stewardship is the common denominator for successful Christians.
Let's plunge into the Scriptures and see if you agree!

Creation Operating System

Read Genesis 1:26. What is God's original operational
principle for humans? (Created like God, they would be
rulers over creation.)

Read Genesis 1:27-28. Did God command humans to exercise
His authority to rule? (Yes. God told us to rule over all
the animals and to subdue the earth.)

Read Genesis 1:29-30. If God's revelation to humans
stopped here, what would you think God had in mind for
your life? (We were created to rule. That means we are
stewards of the earth and of our delegated authority from
God.)

Read Colossians 1:16-18. In this creation mandate, what
position does God take? (He is overall. We are rulers
under God's authority. "All things were created for Him."
That is our operational directive for our stewardship.)

What does the odd title, "firstborn from among the
dead" tell us about this description of God? (This
describes Jesus. He is the Creator and He is the
ruler to Whom we look for our authority.)

Read Colossians 1:19-23. What problem arose in our
rulership that Jesus has fixed? (We sinned. That alienated
us from God and made us His enemies. But, Jesus reconciled
us to God by His life and death.)

What does that suggest about our current situation?
(Two things. First, that we are restored to our same
"sub-ruler" role. Second, we have Jesus to thank for
our reinstatement.)

Logically, where does that place Jesus in our life?
(He is the center. Not only is Jesus the Creator who
made us like Him and gave us a rulership role, but He
restored us to that role at a very great cost to
Himself. This makes Jesus central to all that we do.)

How important to understanding our role in the world
is accepting the Genesis Creation account?

Doctrinal Operating System

Read John 14:6. What is the universal principle for coming
to God? (You must come through Jesus.)

We are sub-rulers under Jesus, and beholden to Jesus
for our position. What expanded idea does John 14:6
add to our rulership role? (Jesus is our only source
of salvation. Not only did He provide for our
position (ruler), but He provided for our salvation
and our understanding of God.)

A common argument is that there are "many ways" to
God. Based on the other religions I know about, they
all have some truth. Psalms 19:1 tells us that the
heavens declare God's glory. Romans 1:19-20 says that
God's qualities are clear from the creation. How is
this consistent with Jesus being the only "way" to
God? (Jesus created the heavens! Jesus created
nature! Jesus reconciled humans to God! From any
angle that you contemplate this, Jesus is truly "the
way and the truth and the light" when it comes to
approaching God.)

Read Revelation 14:6. What message does this angel carry?
(The eternal gospel.)

Read Revelation 14:7. Who are we to worship? (We just
discussed that Jesus is the Creator, thus this is a call
to worship Jesus.)

Notice again, the reference to the Genesis creation
account. What is the basis for Jesus' claim to
worship? (That He is the Creator. Accepting evolution
destroys the single most important argument for
worshiping God. Christians who accept evolution, do
not understand Satan's strategy in this false
theory.)

As sub-rulers over the earth, what is our stewardship
obligation regarding this message? (The angel tells
us that "the hour of His judgment has come." That
means that if we are to preserve the creation, we
need to share the urgent message of fearing and
glorifying our Creator God.)

Read Revelation 14:8. Why is this revelation important?
("Babylon," which pushes to alienate us from Jesus by
worshiping other gods, has been defeated. It is "fallen.")

What does that mean about your rulership? (It is
safe! You get to keep being a ruler and a steward as
long as you are on the side of God.)

Is that something that you should share?

Read Revelation 14:9-10. If Babylon is defeated, are
humans still joining the losing side?(One message we need
to promote is that Jesus has won! Apparently people don't
realize this and keep joining the losing side.)

What is the choice that faces humans? (Worship Jesus,
and enter the path to the only way to God. Or,
worship the beast.)

What is the final outcome for those who reject Jesus
and choose to worship the beast? (You will receive
the full wrath of God and will burn.)

Read Revelation 14:11. Are these two statements linked?
Are the wicked without rest "day or night" because they
are being tormented with "burning sulfur?"

When a fire is burning well, does it produce smoke?
(In my limited experience, the smoke is greatest when
I'm trying to start a fire or when I'm putting it
out.)

Read Genesis 3:2-5. What lie did the serpent make
about sin and death? (He said that sin did not result
in death.)

If Satan's statement about sin not ending in death is
a lie, then how can the wicked have an eternal life
of torture by burning sulfur? (I think Genesis
precludes the two concepts in Revelation 14:11 being
linked. The smoke rises forever because the fire is
out - it just keeps rising. During life, those who
worship the beast and reject Jesus have no rest. They
are tormented.)

Recall two weeks ago we studied 1 Corinthians 9:7-9
where Paul used common sense and an Old Testament
text about cattle to argue that Christians should
support gospel workers? Should we use common sense
to understand God's statements about the fate of the
wicked? (Yes, if two alternative meanings are
possible.)

If you agree that "yes" is the correct answer,
think of the most horrendous crime that has
come to your attention. In your opinion, would
it be a just penalty to burn that criminal with
sulfur forever?

Read Revelation 14:12. What kind of attitude do we need in
the last days? (Patience! "Patient endurance.")

What actions and attitudes should be reflected in our
stewardship? (First and foremost, we remain faithful
to Jesus. We are rulers under Him, and we are
stewards of His gospel and His creation. Second, we
obey God. We understand that God gave His
commandments to us to make our lives better.)

Friend, do you agree that understanding our relationship
with Jesus, understanding that He is our Creator and
Redeemer, and that He gave us authority to rule, directs
our stewardship for Him? If you agree, why not decide
today to accept your role as ruler, and serve and worship
Jesus?

Next week: Debt- A Daily Decision

Copr. 2018, Bruce N. Cameron, J.D. All scripture references are to
the New International Version (NIV), copr. 1973, 1978, 1984
International Bible Society, unless otherwise noted. Quotations
from the NIV are used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers.
Suggested answers are found within parentheses. Pray for the
guidance of the Holy Spirit as you study.

Introduction: This week I listened to a TED talk about capitalism.
The speaker said capitalism was not a political theory or merely a
philosophy of economics, it was an "operating system." Just like your
cell phone (or computer) has an operating system, the speaker argued
that capitalism was the way that successful economic life operated.
His example was that the two biggest economic systems in the world,
the United States and China, have completely different political
systems, but have capitalist economic systems. Our lesson this week
considers whether stewardship is the "operating system" of the
Christian life. Whatever may be your specific doctrinal views,
stewardship is the common denominator for successful Christians.
Let's plunge into the Scriptures and see if you agree!

Creation Operating System

Read Genesis 1:26. What is God's original operational
principle for humans? (Created like God, they would be
rulers over creation.)

Read Genesis 1:27-28. Did God command humans to exercise
His authority to rule? (Yes. God told us to rule over all
the animals and to subdue the earth.)

Read Genesis 1:29-30. If God's revelation to humans
stopped here, what would you think God had in mind for
your life? (We were created to rule. That means we are
stewards of the earth and of our delegated authority from
God.)

Read Colossians 1:16-18. In this creation mandate, what
position does God take? (He is overall. We are rulers
under God's authority. "All things were created for Him."
That is our operational directive for our stewardship.)

What does the odd title, "firstborn from among the
dead" tell us about this description of God? (This
describes Jesus. He is the Creator and He is the
ruler to Whom we look for our authority.)

Read Colossians 1:19-23. What problem arose in our
rulership that Jesus has fixed? (We sinned. That alienated
us from God and made us His enemies. But, Jesus reconciled
us to God by His life and death.)

What does that suggest about our current situation?
(Two things. First, that we are restored to our same
"sub-ruler" role. Second, we have Jesus to thank for
our reinstatement.)

Logically, where does that place Jesus in our life?
(He is the center. Not only is Jesus the Creator who
made us like Him and gave us a rulership role, but He
restored us to that role at a very great cost to
Himself. This makes Jesus central to all that we do.)

How important to understanding our role in the world
is accepting the Genesis Creation account?

Doctrinal Operating System

Read John 14:6. What is the universal principle for coming
to God? (You must come through Jesus.)

We are sub-rulers under Jesus, and beholden to Jesus
for our position. What expanded idea does John 14:6
add to our rulership role? (Jesus is our only source
of salvation. Not only did He provide for our
position (ruler), but He provided for our salvation
and our understanding of God.)

A common argument is that there are "many ways" to
God. Based on the other religions I know about, they
all have some truth. Psalms 19:1 tells us that the
heavens declare God's glory. Romans 1:19-20 says that
God's qualities are clear from the creation. How is
this consistent with Jesus being the only "way" to
God? (Jesus created the heavens! Jesus created
nature! Jesus reconciled humans to God! From any
angle that you contemplate this, Jesus is truly "the
way and the truth and the light" when it comes to
approaching God.)

Read Revelation 14:6. What message does this angel carry?
(The eternal gospel.)

Read Revelation 14:7. Who are we to worship? (We just
discussed that Jesus is the Creator, thus this is a call
to worship Jesus.)

Notice again, the reference to the Genesis creation
account. What is the basis for Jesus' claim to
worship? (That He is the Creator. Accepting evolution
destroys the single most important argument for
worshiping God. Christians who accept evolution, do
not understand Satan's strategy in this false
theory.)

As sub-rulers over the earth, what is our stewardship
obligation regarding this message? (The angel tells
us that "the hour of His judgment has come." That
means that if we are to preserve the creation, we
need to share the urgent message of fearing and
glorifying our Creator God.)

Read Revelation 14:8. Why is this revelation important?
("Babylon," which pushes to alienate us from Jesus by
worshiping other gods, has been defeated. It is "fallen.")

What does that mean about your rulership? (It is
safe! You get to keep being a ruler and a steward as
long as you are on the side of God.)

Is that something that you should share?

Read Revelation 14:9-10. If Babylon is defeated, are
humans still joining the losing side?(One message we need
to promote is that Jesus has won! Apparently people don't
realize this and keep joining the losing side.)

What is the choice that faces humans? (Worship Jesus,
and enter the path to the only way to God. Or,
worship the beast.)

What is the final outcome for those who reject Jesus
and choose to worship the beast? (You will receive
the full wrath of God and will burn.)

Read Revelation 14:11. Are these two statements linked?
Are the wicked without rest "day or night" because they
are being tormented with "burning sulfur?"

When a fire is burning well, does it produce smoke?
(In my limited experience, the smoke is greatest when
I'm trying to start a fire or when I'm putting it
out.)

Read Genesis 3:2-5. What lie did the serpent make
about sin and death? (He said that sin did not result
in death.)

If Satan's statement about sin not ending in death is
a lie, then how can the wicked have an eternal life
of torture by burning sulfur? (I think Genesis
precludes the two concepts in Revelation 14:11 being
linked. The smoke rises forever because the fire is
out - it just keeps rising. During life, those who
worship the beast and reject Jesus have no rest. They
are tormented.)

Recall two weeks ago we studied 1 Corinthians 9:7-9
where Paul used common sense and an Old Testament
text about cattle to argue that Christians should
support gospel workers? Should we use common sense
to understand God's statements about the fate of the
wicked? (Yes, if two alternative meanings are
possible.)

If you agree that "yes" is the correct answer,
think of the most horrendous crime that has
come to your attention. In your opinion, would
it be a just penalty to burn that criminal with
sulfur forever?

Read Revelation 14:12. What kind of attitude do we need in
the last days? (Patience! "Patient endurance.")

What actions and attitudes should be reflected in our
stewardship? (First and foremost, we remain faithful
to Jesus. We are rulers under Him, and we are
stewards of His gospel and His creation. Second, we
obey God. We understand that God gave His
commandments to us to make our lives better.)

Friend, do you agree that understanding our relationship
with Jesus, understanding that He is our Creator and
Redeemer, and that He gave us authority to rule, directs
our stewardship for Him? If you agree, why not decide
today to accept your role as ruler, and serve and worship
Jesus?

Next week: Debt- A Daily Decision

Copr. 2018, Bruce N. Cameron, J.D. All scripture references are to
the New International Version (NIV), copr. 1973, 1978, 1984
International Bible Society, unless otherwise noted. Quotations
from the NIV are used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers.
Suggested answers are found within parentheses. Pray for the
guidance of the Holy Spirit as you study.

Introduction: What does it mean to make an "offering" to God? In the
Old Testament, it was often bringing an animal. To me, the phrase
"tithes and offerings," brings to mind giving money. I recall fondly
the many times when I was up in front of our church with our pastor.
When it came time to collect the "offering," I would hand him a
dollar to donate because he never remembered his offering. It became
a point of humor between us, that I would automatically hand him a
dollar. This week we will explore a different kind of offering, one
that does not involve small amounts of money, but rather large
amounts of your life. Let's dive into our study of the Bible and
learn more!

The Offering of Devotion

Read Luke 7:36-38. What do we learn about the past life of
this woman? (She lived a sinful life. The text does not
describe the sin. While some say this woman is Mary
Magdalene, it makes no sense that Luke would not state her
name, for he mentions her by name in the very next chapter
(Luke 8:2).)

Why do you think this woman did this for Jesus? (The
context argues that Jesus had done something
wonderful for her to bring her out of her past life
of sin.)

If Jesus has helped you out of sin, are you
grateful or are you looking longingly at your
past life?

Read Luke 7:39. Do you think that Jesus knew about the
past life of this woman? (What we will read next shows
that He absolutely knew. That supports the argument that
Jesus previously intervened to help her.)

Read Luke 7:40-43. Do you agree with Simon's answer? (I
hope so, because Jesus tells us it is the correct answer!)

Read Luke 7:44-46. Why do you think Simon invited Jesus to
dinner, but did not show Him the proper hospitality?
(Simon was curious about Jesus. He was not a believer. He
undoubtedly thought he was better than Jesus, and when
Jesus tolerated the conduct of this woman, it made Simon
more certain of his conclusion.)

In Jesus' story, the one forgiven the larger debt
loves more. How is it that this woman loves Jesus so
much before her sins are forgiven? (I think Jesus had
previously forgiven her sins or shown her that He
accepted her. That triggered her response to Him.
Jesus says at this point, "Your sins are forgiven" to
assert to those listening that He is God, He is the
Messiah.)

Let's think about this story and how it applies to you and
your church. Are the current leaders of your church those
who have been terrible sinners in the past, or are they
people who have generally been obedient to God most of
their lives?

If so, do we have in leadership the people who love
Jesus the least?

Are the successful people in your church (in the eyes of
the world) those who have been terrible sinners in the
past? (Probably not. Recall past lessons in which we
learned that God gives us His commandments to make our
lives better. Thus, those who have led a life of obedience
are likely more successful.)

If I'm right, does that mean that those who have the
most money and talent to give to the cause of God are
the least motivated to give?

My statements connecting obedience with success are
generalizations, and those are always incorrect for some
people. But, if you see the general problem I'm
describing, what would you do to fix it? Or, is it
something that cannot be fixed? (The Pharisee class during
Jesus' time appeared, at least on the surface, to be
obedient. This leads our minds to the problem of pride and
self-sufficiency. Perhaps we need more teaching on the
less obvious sins so that more members will love more.)

Read Luke 7:48-50. What issue did Jesus cause the people
to consider when He said, "Your sins are forgiven?" (Who
He is. This is the central issue of the gospel: who is
Jesus Christ? Only God can forgive sins, and that is
Jesus' point.)

The woman has been doing a lot of things that Simon
did not do. Is that the "faith" that saved her? (No.
Her attitude was the complete opposite of that of
Simon. She was grateful to Jesus. Her gratitude
demonstrated itself in her gift and her actions.)

What is the result of your attitude towards
Jesus?

The Offering of Gifts

Read 1 Peter 4:10. What kind of gifts have humans received
from God? (Peter does not list spiritual gifts as Paul
does in his writings (1 Corinthians 12), but if you read
the context of this verse Peter mentions love,
hospitality, speaking and serving.)

What is our obligation with regard to these gifts?
(To share them! To make an offering of them.)

When someone encourages you to make offerings to God (to
the church), do you only think they want money?

If so, why do they want money? (The point of money is
to buy goods and services.)

Would your gift of services be a substitute for
money? (If the point of money is to buy some service,
then giving that service simply provides a shortcut
to the process.)

Payback

Read Matthew 6:2-4. What does it mean that those who
announce their gift "have received their reward in full?"

If we follow what Jesus recommends here, will our
reward from Him be in secret? (It seems hard to
believe that it is in secret.)

Read 2 Corinthians 9:6. What does this text promise with
regard to our giving? (That God will reward us. We either
have a small reward (when we are stingy) or we have a
large reward (when we are generous). Does this make the
nature of our giving clear to all? Does it make our
generosity public?

How would you explain the difference between the
"keep it to yourself" direction, and the "you'll get
a big reward promise? (It is God, not you, who is the
source of praise.)

Read 2 Corinthians 9:7. In this series of lessons we have
considered whether the Old Testament sanctuary tithing
system, with its Malachi 3:8-9 statements about robbing
and curses, is still fully applicable. What does this text
suggest? (The specific context is helping fellow members,
not supporting the clergy, but Paul seems to be speaking
very broadly about giving - it is not "under compulsion.")

Read 2 Corinthians 9:8-9. What is the "payback" promise
here? (That "in all things at all times" we will have "all
that you need." Having what we need releases us to "abound
in every good work.")

Read 2 Corinthians 9:10-11. In what way will generosity
make us rich? ("You will be made rich in every way.")

Is God talking about money or just mental blessings?
(The text refers to "seed to the sower," "bread" and
"harvest." These are tangible blessings. These are
the equivalent of money.)

Do you doubt this? (Many reject the promise of
financial blessings. "Prosperity gospel" is a
negative label for this. Yet we have repeatedly read,
in both the Old and New Testaments, promises of
financial blessings for those who pay a faithful
tithe or in some similar way are generous towards
God.)

Why the resistance to God's promises? (Some point out
that Jesus was not rich. He was also not good-looking
(Isaiah 53:2). Being poor and average looking was so
that every person could say that Jesus experienced
the "sorrows" that are common to humans. (See Isaiah
53:4.))

Is the problem that everyone who is not rich says, "I
don't think this is true - based on my experience?"
(There are two answers to this. First, we need to be
honest about whether we have been generous with God.
Second, being "rich" is a relative term. Consider how
you are compared to most of the rest of the world.)

Friend, will you offer your devotion and your gifts to
God? He makes a great offer in return! Why not test Him
today?

Next week: The Role of Stewardship.

Copr. 2018, Bruce N. Cameron, J.D. All scripture references are to
the New International Version (NIV), copr. 1973, 1978, 1984
International Bible Society, unless otherwise noted. Quotations
from the NIV are used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers.
Suggested answers are found within parentheses. Pray for the
guidance of the Holy Spirit as you study.

Introduction: While many debate what tithing means today, what cannot
reasonably be disputed is that God consistently teaches that those
who advance His gospel are entitled to support from those who
benefit. To better understand what God has in mind for us today,
let's start with Paul's teaching in the New Testament and follow that
with what Moses taught in the Old Testament. What could be better
than digging into God's word to see what we can learn!

Advancing the Gospel

Read 1 Corinthians 9:1-2. How does Paul describe his work?
(He is an apostle.)

To whom is he an apostle? (He says that, at a
minimum, he is an apostle to those who he serving and
teaching.)

Read 1 Corinthians 9:3-6. How would you state, in today's
terms, Paul's defense to the charges against him? (If you
are not paying me, what do you have to complain about?)

None of my clients pay me. A Foundation funds all of
the litigation I handle. Does that mean my clients
should have no expectation of professional work from
me?

What is it that Paul and Barnabas were without that
all of the other apostles had? (The others traveled
with their wives, and they were given food and drink
to support them.)

Read 1 Corinthians 9:7. What answer would you give to
these questions? (No one does that.)

Read 1 Corinthians 9:8-10. What supports Paul's claim that
he has a right to receive payment from those individuals
he is teaching? (His argument is that both common sense
and the Bible support the idea that gospel workers are
entitled to support from those to whom they minister.)

Read 1 Corinthians 9:11. After considering Paul's line of
argument, and this current verse, what does this say to
you about tithing? (It makes the general point that
ministers, pastors, and gospel teachers are entitled to
material support from those whom they serve.)

Paul's argument has some curious aspects. He cites
Deuteronomy 25:4. Let's read this text from the Old
Testament. Does it say anything about supporting the
ministry?

Paul does not cite Malachi 3:10 from the Old
Testament. Let's read it. Why would Paul cite an Old
Testament text about feeding cattle and not cite any
Old Testament text about tithe and supporting the
Levites who ministered at the temple?

Look again at 1 Corinthians 9:9-10. How would you
answer Paul's question about whether God is concerned
about the oxen? (Look at the context of Deuteronomy
25:4. It is beyond doubt that God is talking about
cattle. But, I agree with Paul's logic that this
concept is applicable to supporting gospel workers.)

Read 1 Corinthians 9:13-14 and Malachi 3:8-10. How do you
explain the difference in tone between these two texts?

Look again at 1 Corinthians 9:13. To what is Paul
referring? (He is referring to the tithing system
supporting the Levites.)

If Paul makes specific reference to the tithing
system, what does that say about his argument?

Look again at 1 Corinthians 9:14. What does "in the
same way" reference? (The tithing system.)

When Paul says that "the Lord has commanded" is
he suggesting that supporting gospel workers is
optional? (No.)

What conclusions do you reach from the unique way
Paul structures his argument about how we (those who
are ministered to) should support those who minister
to us? (First, Paul unambiguously says that it is
God's command that gospel workers should receive
support from their gospel work. Second, it seems
nearly as clear that although Paul cites the temple
system of tithing, he is not arguing that system is
still in place. If he did, he would cite Malachi 3
and not a text about feeding cattle. The logical
conclusion is that Paul believes that something
conceptually like the tithing system is appropriate
for Christians.)

Read 1 Corinthians 9:15-18. This system for support that
Paul describes, does it seem mandatory? (He is not
demanding support, although he calls it a "right."
Instead, he points out the blessings of helping others as
a volunteer. Recall that Paul previously (v. 14) wrote
that God "commanded" the system that gospel workers should
receive their living from the gospel.)

Read Acts 18:3. What kind of work does Paul do? (He
is a tentmaker.)

Is it a good idea to spend time making tents, when
Paul (if he demanded and accepted support) could be
spending his time preaching and teaching the gospel?

The Tithe System

We learned that Paul uses the tithe-system of the Old
Testament as one basis for his argument that we must
financially support those who advance the gospel. Let's
explore the Old Testament tithe system a little more to
better understand it. Read Numbers 18:21, 24-28. What is
the purpose of this tithe? (The Levites were given no land
by God, but they were given the responsibility of serving
"at the Tent of Meeting." The tithe was God's substitute
for land. Instead of obtaining food from the land, the
Levites would obtain it from the other tribes who had been
given land and who benefitted from the Levites religious
work.)

Notice that the Levites also paid a tithe. Why do you
think God required them to pay a tithe? They were
tithe receivers! (It taught the Levites the blessings
and obligation of giving.)

Why do you think God set up the tithe system in
general? (It made practical sense, and it taught the
blessings of giving.)

Read Deuteronomy 14:22-23. Who is consuming the tithe
here? (Those who paid it!)

What is God's stated purpose in having the people eat
their own tithe? (They will learn to revere God.)

What about the Levites? Have they been left out?

Read Deuteronomy 14:24-27. This tithe seems to be used to
throw a party in God's presence. Is that how you
understand it?

Read Deuteronomy 14:28-29. How is the tithe used here? (To
help those in need and the Levites.)

Does the direction about throwing a party and helping
the needy with the tithe seem in conflict with the
command to give all the tithe to the Levites? (Yes,
these texts seem in conflict. Many commentators
resolve this apparent conflict by saying that the
payments to the Levites are the "First Tithe." The
"God party tithe" is the "Second Tithe." It appears
that the Second Tithe was paid each year from what
was left after the First Tithe. However, in the third
year something different was done. The "help the
poor" tithe, which appears to be the entire tithe,
was paid to help the Levites and the poor. Historical
records support this interpretation.)

What lessons would you learn from this for today?

That those who pay 10% today are paying too
little, and are therefore robbing God (Malachi
3:10)?

That God is concerned about the support of His
work, He is concerned about us having an
enjoyable family time in His presence, and, He
is concerned about the poor?

Read Genesis 28:20-22. Does this suggest that Jacob had
been raised to believe that tithe-paying was mandatory?
(It suggests that he had not previously paid tithe, and he
was only paying it now if God would watch over him and
bless him.)

What should we conclude from Paul's writings and these Old
Testament texts on tithing? (There is a universal theme
that those who proclaim the gospel should be supported by
those blessed by their proclamation. The concept of
tithing was known in both the Old and New Testaments. The
most formalized system of tithing was connected with the
support of the temple/sacrificial system and the
inheritance of the Levites. Ten percent is the benchmark
for giving, and we learn that amount went even higher in
the formalized system.)

Friend, are you supporting the work of God, the work from
which you benefit? Why not determine right now that you
will invite God's unlimited blessings into your life by
giving back at least a tithe?

Next week: Offerings of Gratitude.

Copr. 2018, Bruce N. Cameron, J.D. All scripture references are to
the New International Version (NIV), copr. 1973, 1978, 1984
International Bible Society, unless otherwise noted. Quotations
from the NIV are used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers.
Suggested answers are found within parentheses. Pray for the
guidance of the Holy Spirit as you study.

Introduction: Many years ago, I met with a group of public school
teachers who wanted to explore what was involved in obtaining a job-related religious accommodation. They had religious objections to
supporting a labor union. The short answer was that they needed to
tell the union about their religious beliefs, and ask that they be
allowed to pay the union fees to a charity that they and the union
agreed upon. When the teachers drove up to the meeting place, I
noticed one of them had a beautiful new Cadillac. Later, the Cadillac
owner asked whether a religious accommodation meant that he would
resign from the union. I was astonished, how could you have religious
objections to an organization and want to remain a member? The
mystery was solved when he said he needed to remain a member so that
he could purchase low cost car insurance! His faith had a price, and
that price was the difference in the insurance premium amount.
Consider whether dishonesty is putting a price on your faith. Let's
explore some novel ways the Bible defines dishonesty.

Defining Dishonesty

Read Luke 16:10-11. Recall that we previously discussed in
detail the story that sets the context for this statement.
Let's re-read that story so that we are all on the same
page. Read Luke 16:1-8. If we define dishonesty as the
simple matter of not cheating people, then it seems we
need a new definition, right? Jesus seems to commend the
cheater!

In light of the story of the dishonest manager, how
would you now define dishonesty? (Failing to be
shrewd with God's money. Failing to use common
sense.)

Let's consider a couple of things that I have
observed. The hospitals associated with my church
employ administrators who are sometimes paid ten
times what a church administrator is paid. Do you
think that is fair? Is it honest?

I have also observed, that when a business is
given to the church, it declines and goes out
of business. Why is it that when a member of
the church owns the business, it prospers, and
when it is given to the church, it declines?
(It seems to me that paying large salaries to
experts be sure that the hospitals prosper
(assuming they in fact, prosper), is being
shrewd. It also seems to me that handing a
business over to those who are not experts (and
are not paid the salaries commanded by
experts), with the result that it fails is
being dishonest - according to the definition
in Jesus' parable of the dishonest manager.)

Are some things not a "matter of simple
honesty?" (The honesty that Jesus was teaching
about, in the context He gave, is not a simple
matter. It is a matter of competently handling
assets to advance the Kingdom of God, rather
than a question of stealing.)

Spiritual Dishonesty

Read Acts 5:1-2. Is there anything dishonest in the story
so far? (No.)

Read Acts 5:3-5. What is the dishonesty, and what is not
dishonest? (What is not dishonest is keeping part of the
money for land that you own, and giving the rest to God.
What is dishonest is lying about whether you gave the
entire sales price to God.)

What would motivate Ananias and Sapphira to engage in
this lie? (Read Acts 4:32-35. They wanted to look as
holy and committed as the rest. Taken together, these
texts show that no one was required to sell their
lands or houses, but some did.)

Would you call this sin pride? Or, greed?

Is this a type of dishonesty?

Is any attempt on your part to look more holy
or committed than you actually are a sin?

Read Acts 5:7-11. What does Peter say is the sin here?
("How could you agree to test the Spirit of the Lord?")

How were they testing the Holy Spirit? The Holy
Spirit knows the truth, so He was not deceived.

Notice that Acts 5:4 also says that the sin here is
lying to God. How can you lie to the One who knows
everything?

Read John 12:4-6. If taking God's money and
misrepresenting your holiness is a sin, then why wasn't
Judas struck dead for what is reported in these verses?

Let's skip down a few verses in Acts 5 to see if we can
better discern the sin that caused the deaths of Ananias
and Sapphira. Read Acts 5:12, 14-16. Why are people healed
even when all that is involved is Peter's shadow falling
on them? (It is the power of the Holy Spirit. It is belief
in the power of the Holy Spirit.)

Did Ananias and Sapphira believe in the Holy Spirit?
(No. They could not have believed in the power of the
Holy Spirit, otherwise they would know they could not
lie to Him. I think that is at the heart of the
reason why judgment was executed on them immediately.
They thought so little of the Holy Spirit that they
believed they could deceive Him and His agents, the
apostles, at a time when the Holy Spirit was working
at an extremely high level of power.)

Tithe Power

Read Leviticus 27:30-34. The last verse says that these
commands were given for the Israelites. Do they apply to
us today?

Read Hebrews 7:5. Who is entitled to the tithe? (The
descendants of Levi.)

Do we have those descendants here today?

Read Hebrews 7:1-2 and Hebrews 7:6-10. What connection
does Abraham's tithe-paying have to the sanctuary system,
the Levites, or the Sinai commands? (It has no connection,
except to say that Abraham was the ancestor of Levi, and
Abraham paid a tithe to Melchizedek.)

What does that suggest to us today? (That it is a
good idea to pay a tithe, that we have an example of
tithe-paying unconnected to the sanctuary service
system.)

Read Malachi 3:8-11. Do you believe what God says about
the blessings of paying tithe?

If you don't believe, are you in the same boat as
Ananias and Sapphira?

Let's focus on Malachi 3:10-11 as an investment offer.
Let's say that a stock broker comes to you and tells you
that if you invest 10% of your portfolio in this one fund,
it will give you unlimited returns. What would you say?
What would you say if the broker had been in the market
forever, and had a perfect reputation? (Let's do it! This
is an amazing deal!)

Now let's assume that children of a very rich person
come to you complaining that their father made them
invest in this scheme. Would you suggest that they
look for a loophole to avoid this investment? Find
some way to reinterpret the Father's direction?
(Anyone with common sense, anyone who is shrewd,
would say, "Are you kidding me? You object to getting
richer?" I think the most critical point is not
whether tithe is required today, the point is who
would not take advantage of this offer? Especially,
when the down side might be robbing God?)

Just this week someone reported that paying tithe
never seemed to benefit him. How would you respond?
(In Malachi 3:10 God invites us to "test" Him. That
makes me doubtful about the accuracy of the "no
benefit" report. In my life, I have experienced huge
returns!)

Read Malachi 3:13-16. If you doubt that God rewards you
for being faithful, why not create a "scroll of
remembrance" to remind you of His blessings? Keep it
updated!

Read Malachi 3:12. Do you feel joy in giving gifts to
others?

If you had a nation of gift-givers, would you call it
a "delightful land?" (The problem is the attitude
that we bring to tithe-paying. If you view it as a
burden and a reduction in income, then you have
completely missed God's point. Generosity not only
lifts your spirits and gives you joy, it makes you
wealthier.)

Friend, are you beginning to see that "honesty with God"
is not simply avoiding lies? It is a matter of excellence
in handling His affairs. It is a belief in the power and
authority of the Holy Spirit. It is an attitude of
generosity that reflects blessings into your life. Why not
ask the Holy Spirit, right now, to change your heart to
embrace the blessings of generosity?

Next week: The Impact of Tithing.

Copr. 2018, Bruce N. Cameron, J.D. All scripture references are to
the New International Version (NIV), copr. 1973, 1978, 1984
International Bible Society, unless otherwise noted. Quotations
from the NIV are used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers.
Suggested answers are found within parentheses. Pray for the
guidance of the Holy Spirit as you study.

Introduction: Assume you decide to hire a steward because you have
considerable assets. What traits would you look for in someone to
trust with your money or your other possessions? What characteristics
could be ignored? You would want the person to be smart, or at least
wise, right? Honest? Loyal, in the sense of having your best
interests at heart? Competent? If you think these characteristics are
important, perhaps even mandatory, would God's requirements be
different? They might be, right? Let's plunge into our study of the
Bible and learn more about being God's steward!

Wise

Read Luke 16:8. You will recall that in Lesson 3 of this
series we studied this story. (If you don't recall, read
the entire story of the unjust manager, Luke 16:1-12.)
What did Jesus seem to indicate is the most important
trait - in this parable at least? (Being "shrewd." Jesus
is talking about a combination of intelligence and
commonsense.)

Was this dishonest manager a "steward?" (Yes!)

Read Matthew 24:45-46. What kind of a steward is Jesus
describing? (A wise and faithful one.)

What action results from this wisdom? (Faithful
performance.)

Do some important traits have, as their natural
result, other important traits? (In this case
this certainly seems true. Being wise results
in being faithful. Let's talk next about being
faithful.)

Faithful

Read Hebrews 11:1. Tell me one thing that you do not have,
but you are certain you will have in the future? (If you
are young, look for an answer other than gray hair and
wrinkles.)

Name something else that you have been assured that
you will have in the future, but you do not see any
evidence of it right now?

If you can come up with an answer to these two
questions, then you have "faith" in your answers.

Read Hebrews 11:2-3. Do you have faith that God is the
Creator of the universe? (I hope so! Many do not.)

Read Hebrews 11:8. What was so unique about Abraham's
decision to go where God told him?

If I told you that I wanted you to not simply take a
trip, but permanently move somewhere, what would you
want to know? (Where.)

If you did not know where you were moving, would you
agree to move?

When you consider the answers you have just given, what
does it teach you about the nature of faith?

Now, consider that this kind of faith is a "mark" of
a steward. Why do you think it is characteristic of
one of God's stewards?

Would it be helpful if your steward was one of
the smartest people on the planet, but was not
faithful to you? Did not trust you in difficult
times?

Vision

Read Matthew 6:19-21. You may recall that we studied this
statement in Luke 12 in the context of the successful
farmer who had a great crop, built barns to store it, and
then died that night. (Luke 12:16-21.) The following
verses in Luke then tell us to trust God, not money, and
to create assets in heaven because that is where we will
spend our future. Do you recall this?

Let's also explore the context for the Matthew version of
this story. Read Matthew 6:22-23. What do our eyes have to
do with storing up treasure in heaven rather than on
earth?

Read Matthew 6:24. What does Jesus' statement about two
masters have to do with our eyes?

More importantly, what does it have to do with being
a steward? (The unifying theme is having a vision to
advance the Kingdom of God. If your goal is God,
rather than money, if your vision in life is to bring
glory to God, then your time, money and other assets
follow your vision.)

Is vision different than being faithful? (I think it
is a different side of being trustworthy. The
faithful side says that you believe God and you
believe in His plan for your life. The vision side
says you have a plan in life that is in accord with
your beliefs.)

Honest

Read Psalms 12:1-2. What terrible thing has happened to
the world, according to the Psalmist? (Everyone lies.)

Read Psalms 12:3-4. What is the problem with a steward who
boasts? (He thinks that he is the reason for his success,
not the wealth and direction of his master.)

What is the link between boasting and honesty? (True
boasting is a lie. It makes the steward unreliable.)

Read John 8:44. Have you met people whose "native
language" is to lie?

Would you hire a steward who spoke that language
fluently?

Read 1 Timothy 4:1-4. Do the people described here have a
conscience? (It has been "seared," so I believe the answer
is that they do not have a properly working conscience.)

When a person tells you that God requires you to take
some additional action to be more faithful, do you
assume that person is religious and honest?

When a person tells you that God does not require you
to do something you are doing right now, something
that you think is required, do you assume that person
is less religious and perhaps not truly honest?

Notice here that the people who are hypocrites,
liars, and have no conscience, are urging
people to do more for God. They are urging
people to refrain from doing things they enjoy.
What do you think about the idea that the more
"strict" Christian might really be an evil
person?

What does this have to do with the marks of a
steward? (You want a steward to give you
accurate advice. Here, the advice originates
with demons.)

Obedient

Read 1 Samuel 15:22. How would you compare obedience and
"sacrifices" in today's terms? (It is better to obey then
to say "I'm sorry.")

Is obedience something that you think is important
for a steward? (You want your directions followed.)

Why? (Because it is your assets that are at
stake.)

Does that same consideration apply to our
stewardship for God? (No doubt God wants
His instructions followed, but He gives us
instructions for our benefit.)

Read 1 Samuel 15:23. Let's discuss the nature of
disobedience. What does this say is the cause of
disobedience? (Arrogance and rebellion.)

Would you want an arrogant and rebellious steward
working for you? (No. Think about how this applies to
doing your job.)

What other reasons might a person disobey? (Weakness.
Confusion.)

Would you want a steward who was weak and
confused?

Read 1 Samuel 15:24-25. Who does Saul blame for his
disobedience? (The people.)

What do you think is the problem with Saul's excuse?
(He is not being accountable.)

When you think about the "marks of a steward" that we have
discussed, how much of this is about being accountable?
(All of it. We need to take responsibility for all of
these traits. This is not about salvation, it is about our
service to God. It is about how we will live our lives.)

Friend, will you consider each of these characteristics of
a steward, and compare them to your life? If you find that
you don't measure up, why not ask the Holy Spirit, right
now, to help you improve your walk with God?

Next week: Honesty With God.

Copr. 2018, Bruce N. Cameron, J.D. All scripture references are to
the New International Version (NIV), copr. 1973, 1978, 1984
International Bible Society, unless otherwise noted. Quotations
from the NIV are used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers.
Suggested answers are found within parentheses. Pray for the
guidance of the Holy Spirit as you study.

Introduction: "Steward" is not a term used very much today. "Agent,"
"representative," "employee" or "manager" are more common terms. But,
do those words capture the full meaning of being a steward? More
important for our purposes, do they capture the Biblical meaning
being God's steward? Let's once more immerse ourselves in God's word
to learn more about His goal for us as stewards!

Genesis Stewards

Read Genesis 1:27. What wonderful thing do we learn about
humans in this verse? (That God created us in His image!)

What do you think that means? What is the
significance of that? (God wants us to be like Him.
God gave us a very special gift and identity.)

Read Genesis 1:28. What is our relationship to the rest of
the creation? (We are rulers over all of the animals. We
are to subdue the earth.)

How many humans would there be in God's original
plan? (We are told to "fill the earth.")

Read Genesis 1:29-30. Did we have a special diet? (Yes -
vegetables and fruit.)

Was our diet superior to that of the animals? (Yes -
they only had "green plants" for their food.)

Step back a minute and think about the position and the
responsibility that God gave us. How would you describe
it? (God made us the rulers of the earth. Just like He was
the Ruler of the Universe, He made us lesser rulers over
the earth and everything in it.)

Would you consider this stewardship an obligation or
a special privilege?

When you think about the general understanding of
being a steward, does the role God gave to us seem
more grand? (I think it is much grander. We have an
incredible amount of authority and privilege.)

Read Genesis 2:15-17. What stewardship tasks do we have
here?

How much of a limit did God place on what humans
could eat?

Read Genesis 2:19-20. What stewardship tasks do we find
here?

What does this say about the relative relationship
between humans and animals? (Giving Adam naming
rights shows he was clearly the master over the
animals.)

Let's bring what we have discovered in Eden to the
question of what God requires of us as stewards. Is being
God's steward a job that you would like to have - if we
can use Eden as our job description? (Yes!)

What do you like about the job of being God's
steward? (1. Authority. 2. The relationship to God -
being in the image of God. 3. God doesn't seem to
require a large return or "rent." Of all of the
trees, we get to eat from all except two. What God
seems to want is fellowship. 4. We get to live and
work in a great place. And, our work is managerial,
not physically taxing.)

Post Eden Stewardship - Financial

Read Genesis 3:16. How has the job description changed for
Eve?

Has the managerial part of the work been modified?
(Adam was created first, but there was no indication
in the creation account that they were not equals.
However, Eve distrusted God in the matter of her
relative authority (see, Genesis 3:4-6), and
thereafter God reduced her rank of authority.)

Why do you think that God made childbirth painful?
(In her ability to develop and birth other people,
Eve was the closest to being like her creator God.
Eve disbelieved that God had made her like Him (see,
Genesis 3:4-6), so God made her role as a co-creator
something she would not forget.)

Read Genesis 3:17-19. How has the job description changed
for Adam?

Why do you think that God made producing food so
difficult for Adam? Why that particular penalty? (If
you look at Genesis 3:6 and 1 Timothy 2:14, it
appears that Adam made the decision to support Eve
instead of supporting God. Thus, God decided that in
the future, supporting his wife and family would
focus his attention on the path he had chosen.)

Would you still want the job of being a steward? (It
is still an astonishing job - God seems to give us a
huge amount of authority over the rest of the
creation. God does not, according to what we have
read so far, demand a financial return on His
investment. He only requires a time return (Genesis
2:2-3), and that return seems to be mostly a blessing
for us.)

Read Malachi 3:7-10. Let's assume the general application
of this requirement to us today. What do you think, as a
steward, about the "split" between you and God? (On the
face of it this is a great deal! Not quite the deal in
Eden with the fruit trees, but still great! God demands
only 10% - we get 90%.)

Read Malachi 3:10-11. Now tell me about your view of the
deal? (This promises that we get "you cannot store it all"
back - this certainly must be more than our original 10%
back! Give me this stewardship job! Of course, we have not
discussed the unspecified amount of offerings.)

Post Eden Stewardship - Spiritual

Read Colossians 2:2-3. What does God want us to have?
("Complete understanding.")

What, again, was the temptation presented to Eve?
(Read again Genesis 3:5 - she was offered greater
understanding.)

Look again at Colossians 2:2. What is at the heart of
a complete understanding? (Understanding the mystery
of Jesus and what He has done for us.)

Are we stewards of that information?

Read 1 Corinthians 4:1-2. Based on what we learned, what
is the most important "secret thing" of God? (Who Jesus
is! What He has done for humans!)

What do you think it means to be "faithful" with
something entrusted to us?

What do you think it means to be faithful with the
"secret things of God?" (The same thing Paul was
doing - sharing about Jesus with those who did not
know about Him.)

Read Matthew 22:39. What kind of stewardship does this
suggest? (We have been given the gift of being loved by
God. We have been given the gift of eternal life because
of the incredible love and sacrifice of Jesus. We are
called upon to share this love with others.)

What kind of "split" or "rent" does God suggest here?
(This looks more like an even split. We love our
neighbor as we love our self, not more and not less.)

Do you think God intended us to put a number or
percentage on this split? (No. With our
finances or our time we could put a number.
With love, especially the kind of love we learn
about in the "mystery of God" (Jesus), the
obligation seems total.)

Why use a warrior as an illustration of our
stewardship? (Read Ephesians 6:11-12. We are stewards
to a Lord who is in battle against the "powers of
this dark world" and "the spiritual forces of evil in
the heavenly realms.")

If we are in battle, doesn't that say something
important about the neat and precise numbers we
previously discussed about our financial and time
return obligations? (God did, at one point, give
minimum numbers and explained His return system. But,
that seems to reflect a floor (not a ceiling) on what
God is looking for in His stewards.)

Friend, God has given us a great job! As His stewards, we
have great authority and opportunity. God does not require
much of us in terms of the minimum financial returns for
our stewardship. However, He expects that we will reflect
His love and we will stand faithful to Him. Will you,
right now, accept God's job offer?

Next week: The Marks of a Steward.

Copr. 2018, Bruce N. Cameron, J.D. All scripture references are to
the New International Version (NIV), copr. 1973, 1978, 1984
International Bible Society, unless otherwise noted. Quotations
from the NIV are used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers.
Suggested answers are found within parentheses. Pray for the
guidance of the Holy Spirit as you study.

Introduction: Have you heard the claim that the rich are greedy? Does
that seem right to you? If the rich are already rich, why would they
be greedy for more? Or, is this a reference to a time when the rich
were not rich? If it is a reference to the time when the rich were
poor, then wouldn't it be more accurate to say that the poor are
greedy? Think about the time in your life when you had the least
money. Was money a focus? I know that my wife and I were a lot more
focused on money when we were first married and we were very poor.
Our lesson this week is about being different than the world, and
avoiding a focus on money. I think this is a lesson that everyone
needs, whether you feel you are rich or poor. Let's dive into our
study of the Bible and learn about focus!

The Right Focus

Read Colossians 3:1. Who are the people who have been
"raised with Christ?" (This seems to be a reference to
baptism. If you accepted Jesus as the God who became a
man, who lived a perfect life, died for our sins, and was
raised to eternal life to retake His position in heaven,
then this message is for you! This is a message to those
who are already saved.)

What does it mean to "set your hearts on things
above?"

Read Colossians 3:2. Now we are told to set our "minds" on
things above. Are we being asked to do two different
things? (I think of my mind as being the seat of logic,
and my heart as the seat of emotion. Perhaps we are told
to set both our logic and our emotions "on things above.")

Tell me what specific thoughts or emotions you think
are involved here?

Read Colossians 3:3-4. What is our future? (That we will
appear with Jesus in glory since we are now "hidden with"
Him.)

Why should our salvation direct our focus in life?
(We should be focused on those things which are
above, and not on earthly things because we died to
things on earth.)

How much do you think about your future? (Hopefully,
we think more about our future than our past. God
teaches us that the future for those who are saved is
with Him in heaven. Thus, we should be focused on
this future!)

What does this say about stewardship? (Recall that
when we discussed Luke 12:16-21, the story of the
rich farmer who died, his problem was that he
prepared for a future on earth and not a future in
heaven.)

Is this concern about the future limited to
Christians? (Think about all of the pagan cultures
who, in their death ritual, try to transfer weapons,
wealth and other things for the future use of the
person who died.)

Read Colossians 3:5. Now we get to some very clear
specifics. What are we supposed to "put to death?"

Does the suggestion that we put these things to death
have any relationship to the fact that we died with
Jesus and thus look forward to eternal life? (I think
that is exactly what is being said here. We should
leave these things behind.)

Do you think the text seems to talk mainly about two
things: sexual sins and greed? Or, do you view
"impurity" and "evil desires" to be broader than
sexual sins?

Since our series is about stewardship, what is
the specific problem with "greed?" (Colossians
says it is "idolatry.")

How is greed idolatry? (The central
problem with greed is that we depend on
our money rather than depending on God.
God saved us by grace, and therefore we
should live by His grace!)

How should we put these things to death? What
practical approach do you think the Bible suggests?
(This goes back to Colossians 3:1-2 which tells us to
set our hearts and our minds on "things above,"
rather than on the things we are trying to put to
death.)

Can you control your mind or your heart? (This
is where we especially need the help of the
Holy Spirit.)

The Coming Wrath

Read Colossians 3:6. Why are these "earthly" things the
cause of God's impending wrath? (They are in conflict with
God's Kingdom, the "things above." We are saved! Why
should we continue with those things that will get the
wicked destroyed by God?)

Read Colossians 3:7-8. Yesterday, I had a very intense
conversation with an acquaintance who wanted to convert me
to Catholicism. In our discussion of the doctrines of the
Catholic Church that prevent me from being a member, one
that we discussed was my simple view of grace. My
acquaintance quoted the Bible as saying that demons also
believe in Jesus (James 2:19). Do you think that this list
of things of we must rid from our lives is a matter of
salvation? (My Catholic friend did not give me a Bible
cite or a full quote. James says demons believe "and
shudder." Obviously, demons do not believe in Jesus as
their Savior. The list in Colossians is a "to do" list for
those who are already saved - to bring their actions in
line with their new relationship with Jesus.)

Read Colossians 3:9-10. We previously discussed the need
for the power of the Holy Spirit to bring our thoughts and
actions in line with our new life. What tool do these
verses mention to help us change into the image of our
Creator? (Knowledge. Studying the Bible is important to
these changes being made in our life.)

Why do you think this verse specifically points out
lies as a problem to be eliminated? (Consider the
reference to knowledge. Lies specifically impair our
ability to have a correct understanding of things.)

This text clearly refers to racial prejudice. What
other prejudices does it cover? What kind of
prejudice is included in "slave or free?" (Economic
prejudice. Class prejudice. This goes both ways. We
should not have prejudice against the poor. We should
not have prejudice against the rich.)

Read Colossians 3:12. You may be asking yourself whether
we have lost sight of the topic of stewardship. Do these
virtues have any relationship to stewardship? (They seem
to be the emotional basis for stewardship - compassion,
kindness, and humility.)

Read Colossians 3:13. Is there a connection between
forgiveness and stewardship? (You are less inclined to
help someone who has made errors. I'm not suggesting that
"tough" love is never the answer, but I know that God
repeatedly forgives me for the same sins.)

Read Colossians 3:14. What is the master attitude that
makes these other attitudes work together? (Love.)

Holy Spirit

Read John 14:16-17. What is an essential part of living
the new life and leaving the old life behind? (The Holy
Spirit living in us.)

Read John 16:7-13. What is the key to a change of our mind
and hearts to reflect the kind of character and actions we
have been studying in this lesson? (The Holy Spirit. We
cannot change our hearts or our minds. But, the Holy
Spirit living in us can.)

Friend, will you change your focus to the future and your
new life with Jesus? Will you ask the Holy Spirit to live
in you and make these changes possible? Why not ask God
for that right now?

Next week: Stewards After Eden.

Copr. 2018, Bruce N. Cameron, J.D. All scripture references are to
the New International Version (NIV), copr. 1973, 1978, 1984
International Bible Society, unless otherwise noted. Quotations
from the NIV are used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers.
Suggested answers are found within parentheses. Pray for the
guidance of the Holy Spirit as you study.